MTV Cancels Buckwild, Producer Furious

In the wake of Buckwild star Shain Gandee's sudden death, MTV has canceled the reality series — and the show's producer is not happy about it.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, J.P. Williams said, "This is the network that has shows about teen pregnancy. They'll stick by a show that allows you to abandon a child, but a kid dies by accident doing what he does for a living [mudding] and they cancel the show? There's something that smells of sh-- here on every level."

Earlier this month, Gandee and two others were found dead in their car after succumbing to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Although it was reported that production was immediately halted, Williams says that he was told that MTV would resume the series by shooting four more episodes and a special dedicated to Gandee. On Tuesday, Williams says he found out the network changed its mind and decided to cancel it.

"There was no explanation," he says, adding that he's now thinking of self-financing a Buckwild film. "My job is to protect these kids ... This will get ugly."

In a statement to TVGuide.com, MTV said, "After careful consideration, MTV will not be moving forward with season two of Buckwild in West Virginia. We love the cast and the show and this was not an easy decision, but given Shain's tragic passing and essential presence on the show, we felt it was not appropriate to continue without him. Instead, we are working on a meaningful way to pay tribute to his memory on our air and privately."

On Sunday, the network will run the special Buckwild: WV to the NYC, which was shot before production had begun on season two. MTV will then run the tribute following a day of programming dedicated to Shain where the entire first season will air.

Shain's mom, Loretta, added in a statement: "Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time for our family. We have truly felt all the love and know that Shain is resting peacefully. Shain was an incredible, outgoing, and positive person who was loved by whoever he met. We are honored that we were able to let the world see what a wonderful son we had. He was the best son anyone could ask for. As we look to honor him in our lives every day moving forward, we are happy to share some of his last moments doing what he loved best: having fun and making people laugh."